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Friday, October 07, 2005

More from the pumpkin patch...

*Click on the photos to enlarge

Pumpkin doughnuts I thought would be a good way today to use up some of the pumpkin puree we had from roasting the ones we got from a local farm a few days ago. If you've never made your own before it is actually quite simple - look below the pictures for instructions.

These delicious doughnuts are baked, rather than fried, in a doughnut pan. I have had these pans laying around for the longest time calling to me "use me, please use me!" The have a mild pumpkin flavor and I used a simple powdered sugar glaze to play around with some orange designs. I didn't have much time so it was kind of a rushed job in decorating them. I made 6 large and 12 mini doughnuts with enough batter leftover to make 2 cute mini muffins. I can't wait to make these again - fun stuff!

After a visit to a local asian market to get some ingredients, I was ready to make dinner tonight. Florentine Rice Noodle Gratin is a silky, comforting, and filling meal. I served some steamed broccoli along side. The noodles are fast to cook and hold together well after being cut. Next time I might add in some minced garlic into the onion mixture - other than that I don't think I would change anything else! This would be great to make ahead and then reheat to serve later.

Since I started coming to this blog there is always a lovely surprise on the wait. The doughnuts look fabulous. I don't even want to start thiking about what you do when you have time in your hands 'coz they look beautifully decorated as they are. AS for the gratin, what a fabulous idea. I love noodles and have already copied the recipe.Till next time.